Rochester Institute Of Technology Online

Rochester Institute of Technology Online

  • Online school of a nationally respected, career-oriented technological institution
  • Recognized by U.S. News & World Report as the #1 comprehensive university in the North for academic reputation
  • Provider of distance learning programs for almost 30 years
  • Online courses taught by the same distinguished faculty that teach campus programs
  • Courses offered quarterly in September, November, March and June
  • Accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

About Rochester Institute of Technology Online

The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Online is part of a large, private university focused on professional and career-oriented educational programs. Founded in 1829 and located in Rochester, New York, RIT enrolls students from all 50 states and more than 95 countries from around the world.

In addition to RIT's wide array of campus programs, RIT also offers undergraduate, graduate, and graduate certificate programs via online study. Distance learning has been offered at RIT for almost 30 years, with approximately 5,000 students taking online courses each year. In 2008, RIT received the Center of Excellence Award from the New Media Consortium, recognizing RIT's support of online learning, faculty innovation, and emerging technologies.

Academic Programs

Rochester Institute of Technology offers a range of online undergraduate and graduate certificates and degrees within six core areas of emphasis including Art, Engineering and Technology, Business Management and Human Services, Computing and Information Sciences and Technology, Multidisciplinary Studies, and Mathematics and Imaging Science. The following are a sampling of some of the online degrees offered at RIT:

  • Executive MBA - Accelerated 15 month program geared toward innovative and creative individuals with extensive work experience. Included at the end of this program is a team business project and international trip.
  • Master of Engineering Microelectronics Manufacturing Engineering - Program preparing students for careers in the worldwide semiconductor industry, and includes an internship with a supervised, structured work environment to help students achieve career goals.
  • Master of Science Environmental, Health and Safety Management - Part of the professional studies program for students desiring a customized plan of study according to their own career objectives. A hands-on, practical project completes the degree program.
  • Master of Science Imaging Science - Program designed for students with an existing bachelor's degree in engineering or science, and emphasizes a systems approach to the study of imaging science.

Learning Options

Online classes at RIT are offered four times per year and are 11 weeks in length. Students are required to have Internet access to access coursework, which is mostly asynchronous, although some classes may require participation at a specific day and time. Students are generally recommended to log into coursework four to five times per week.

Faculty

RIT notes that its faculty are distinguished in their fields and continually update curriculums to stay relevant and current. Most of the faculty that teach online also teach the same classes on campus. Students have access to faculty members via the online learning system, e-mail, and by telephone.

Student Life

Comprehensive support services and resources are available to online students at RIT including academic advising, technical support, library services, a bookstore, and an Online Learning Student Community.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Admissions to online programs at RIT follow the same process and requirements as campus programs. Requirements vary by program, but interested applicants in graduate degree programs should have a baccalaureate degree or equivalent from a regionally accredited school and have earned a minimum 3.0 GPA. Applicants must submit an application and official transcripts, recommendation letters, objective statement, and a resume, with some programs having additional requirements. Online students are eligible for financial aid, and the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships can assist students throughout the process.